Punjab to install LED streetlights in rural areas

Chandigarh | Jul 17: The Punjab government today said it will install LED streetlights, which run on solar energy, in rural areas of the state. While launching the 'Solar Pind' campaign here, New and Renewable Energy Minister Bikram Singh Majithia said under this initiative, villages in the districts along the international border and the villages in the sub mountainous area would be covered on priority.

"In addition, 100 such villages which were bestowed with the presence of our gurus, saints, fakirs, martyrs and having historical or religious importance will also be covered on priority. The allocation will be done in a phased manner on first cum first serve basis," he said.

Majithia said installing these street lights would provide a sense of security to the villagers and safety to those returning late in the evening.

"Moreover, these lights would also come as an aid to the security forces deployed along the International Border to keep a check on the anti-national elements. Since these lights are standalone, these will continue to work even in the midst of a grid failure," he said.

"Harnessing the vast potential of the solar power along with a suitable technology is the key to protecting our planet. Punjab's initiative to use clean and green energy will go a long way to make the world a better place," said Majithia.

After installation, the responsibility for the security of the lights will be of the village panchayat, he said.